Travel Gems

Havana City Colour

Following the introduction of five fresh new colours to Havana,
we return to the inspiration behind this vibrant friendship
bracelet collection.

The Cuban capital of Havana is a culturally rich, lively melting
pot of awe-inspiring sights and styles. This unique city has an
unmistakeably Caribbean feel in a setting steeped in history.
Tropical climes mean palm trees and street dancing. Spanish baroque
architecture and boldly painted buildings sit alongside pristine
1950s American cars.

Travel photographer Mark Luscombe-Whyte's images have graced the
pages of Condé Nast Traveller, Vogue and Vanity Fair Travel. These
images by Mark capture the colour and energy of Havana, setting the
tone for our eclectic new friendship pieces.

A vintage car in Habana Vieja is a splash of energy against a backdrop of faded colour. The streets of the old town are filled with stunning architecture and live music

A candy pink Chevrolet speeds past the imposing José Marti memorial in Revolution Square. The fun flash of yellow in the background is a three-wheeled ‘Coco Taxi’, named for its resemblance to a coconut

Folklorico dancers perform their fusion of traditional and ballet dancing in a rippling rainbow of flamboyant colour

On the beach at essential day trip destination, Playa del Este, with the refreshing clear blue tones of ocean and sky

This diving board at the Hotel Riviera captures a moment in time, with its 1950s shape and colour blocking

A sitting room in one of Havana’s many home stays. The rich colour and ornate decoration create a sense of calm and luxury

The Hotel Amos Mundos is a 1920s gem famously
frequented by Ernest Hemingway, who wrote For Whom The Bell Tolls
in room 511. Head to the roof terrace for amazing views and live
music.

Eat…

Havana is full of small paladares, which are private
restaurants, often inside people's homes. The menus are usually
international and due to food shortages, the restaurants usually
have their own market gardens.

Mark's favourite paladares are Le Chansonnier
(Calle J No 257, between Calles 13 and 15, Vedado) and
Atelier (Calle 5, between Paseo y Calle 2,
Vedado). Both are located in charming buildings with interesting
decoration, serve excellent food and are reasonably priced. Le
Chansonnier also features some great art by Damian Aquiles, one of
Cuba's most interesting young artists.

Sip…

Mojitos are a must. Head to El Chanchullero, a
laid-back local bar with delicious tapas and a sociable, Spanish
atmosphere (Calle Teniente Rey 457)